Prague, Dresden, and the Castles of Bohemia: A Spectacular Cruise on the Elbe and Vltava Rivers

Passengers are welcome to board at 6:00 p.m. in Prague. In the evening, we'll introduce our crew at a welcome cocktail. We'll enjoy dinner on board.

We'll cruise through the idyllic scenery on the Vltava River to the dam in Slapy. Forest hills, river bends, and distant castles dot the distinctively romantic landscape. Once known for its gold mines, Stechovice is now famous for its traditional handmade pottery. In the afternoon, join us for an optional excursion to Konopiste Castle. Located in an idyllic setting, this 13th-century fortressentirely renovated in the 18th centurywas the Habsburg's hunting lodge. In addition to its sumptuously decorated apartments, the castle is home to an impressive collection of medieval weapons and armor that once belonged to Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria. The castle was his last abode prior to his assassination in Sarajevo in 1914. Enjoy an evening of entertainment on board.

We'll cruise on the beautiful Vltava River to the Slapy dam. We'll follow the winding river lined with hillsides on each bank and catch glimpses of castles in romantic, restful landscapes so typical of central Bohemia. The Slapy Reservoir is a popular vacation spot for residents of Prague, offering water sports and numerous recreational activities. We'll return to Prague at the end of the afternoon.

Join us this morning for an optional guided tour of the Old Town in Prague. Stare Mesto dates back more than 1,000 years and is one of the most important places in Bohemian history. As you stroll through the city's narrow streets, you'll discover many points of interest, including the Jewish quarter, the old town hall and its famous astronomical clock, the Gothic church of Our Lady before Tyn, and the Charles Bridge. We'll enjoy lunch on board. In the afternoon, join us for an optional guided tour of the Prague Castle district: Palaces, churches, and convents stand harmoniously in the vicinity of the castle, sitting high on a hill watching over the city. We'll discover St. Vitus Cathedral, the largest and most important church in the country and one of the most prestigious Gothic cathedrals in Europe; the Old Royal Palace; and the Golden Lane, named after the goldsmiths that thrived there during the 17th century. Enjoy an evening of traditional entertainment on board.

We'll spend the morning cruising to Melnik, at the confluence of the Elbe. We'll enjoy lunch on board. This afternoon, join us for an optional tour of Nelahozeves Castle. We'll visit one of the most beautiful Renaissance castles in Bohemia that was home to 23 different Bohemian queens and princesses. The castle walls are elaborately adorned with Italian-style stucco and wall paintings depicting scenes from the Old Testament and Greek mythology. It is also home to a rich, private collection of furniture and paintingsincluding works by Rubens, Velazquez, and many othersall belonging to the Lobkowicz family, the oldest and most eminent Bohemian noble family. We'll discover the luxurious lifestyle of the Bohemian nobility during the Baroque period. At the end of our tour, you'll enjoy tasting a selection of wines from the castle's vineyard.The rest of the evening is yours to do as you please.

Join us for anoptional full-day excursion to Dresden, a fantastic city known as the Florence of the Elbe.(lunch included - driving time ~2h one way and ~2h return).Departure from Melnik, transfer by coach to Dresden. A relatively recent city with Slavic origin, Dresden became the capital of the Margravate of Meissen in the 13th century and the seat of the Dukes of Saxony in the 15th century. Dresden offers a wide variety of attractions, including magnificent promenades on the bank of the Elbe, fascinating museums, monuments, and charming details. Well have lunch in a local restaurant. In the afternoon, join us for a guided tour of the Royal Palace, the former residence of the Saxon Dukes and Electors and the Kings of Saxony. After our excursion, well return to Prague by bus (surroundings) and start sailing to Prague city center. Tonight is our festive gala evening.

Enjoy breakfast on board this morning before disembarking at 09:00 a.m.